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Mahopac's Math Testing Opt-Out Rate 'One Of The Highest Around'

MAHOPAC, N.Y. -- A majority of Mahopac Central School District students eligible to take the state Math exams for grades 3 through 8 this week have opted out, Interim Superintendent Brian Monahan disclosed Wednesday.

Brian Monahan, pictured in July 2014, reports that 52 percent of eligible students opted out of state math tests for grades 3 through 8.

Brian Monahan, pictured in July 2014, reports that 52 percent of eligible students opted out of state math tests for grades 3 through 8.

 Photo Credit: Tom Auchterlonie
Tom Auchterlonie

According to data provided by the school district, out of 1,946 eligible students, 1,013, or 52 percent, have opted out. Just 933 have participated.

The majority refusal rate for the math tests comes following last week's administration of state English Language Arts (ELA) testing. The opt-out rate for ELA was about half, Monahan said.

The interim superintendent acknowledged that Mahopac's opt-out level is above other school districts in the area, calling ti "one of the highest around."

However, Monahan said that he was not surprised by the outcome, given that the opt-out movement has gained momentum across the state in recent weeks.

Monahan does not know what the consequences will be for Mahopac due to the opt-out rates, calling it "unclear." He added that although there can be consequences if a school falls below 95-percent participation, so many districts have done so.

Monahan also shared anecdotal feedback he has received from parents. Among those whose kids took the exams, he said that their children felt they should not have to do so because their friends were not. On the opt-out side, Monahan said that parents feel they are doing what is right for their kids.

Jon Craig contributed to this report

 

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